8 Best Sewing Machines for Advanced Sewers – Versatile and Professional!

By
Jean Chaney
Jean Chaney
Research Writer
Jean is the brains behind her fashion label. She's a whiz with a needle and thread, and has been sewing since she was old enough to hold a pair of scissors. Jean has always read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Isabel Misner
Isabel Misner
Expert Consultant
A professional seamstress. Isabel has her own video blog where she shares her experience about all the aspects of sewing – from choosing suitable materials to step-by-step read more
Last updated: August 21, 2023
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One of the known secrets that advanced sewers know is that the quality of your sewing largely depends on the machine you use. Whether you sew for home or professional use, a high-end sewing machine gives you an edge over other sewers. These machines have unique features that enhance sewing, embroidery, or even quilting while offering a fast and decent output. With that said, finding the best sewing machine for advanced sewers is not a walk in the park. Not with the hundreds if not thousands of products on the market.

We spent more than 72 hours trying out some of the high-end sewing machines on the market. Our quest to find some of the top sewing machines for advanced sewers led us to explore 8 products. And while this took us a couple of days, we had a lot of fun getting to make different fabrics. We loved the SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 , and for a lot of reasons. This manual sewing machine is fast, sturdy, portable, and features a built-in needle threader. It also comes with a quick start guide to make it easy to use.

While we spent time learning how each machine works, we also considered many features in our review. These include the sewing speed, number of built-in stitches, dimensions, and weight, among others. The review starts with a comparison table that highlights each product that we reviewed. This is then followed by in-depth reviews of each product and a buying guide to give you extra information about high-end sewing machines.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: SINGER Heavy Duty 4452
    "This manual sewing machine comes with a built-in needle threader, heavy-duty accessories and a quick start guide"
  • Best Value: Brother XR3774
    "This is an automatic sewing machine that has a drop-in top bobbin and a versatile free arm"
  • "Simple minimalistic and clean design along with a convenient LCD screen make this machine easy to use and nice to have around in one’s home"
  • Best Automatic Sewing Machine: Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine
    "Jam resistant this lightweight and portable automatic sewing machine also has an easy stitch selector"
  • Best for Home Use: Necchi EX30
    "Extension table comes with this computerized sewing machine as well as an optic magnifier and a full rotary hook bobbin"
  • "Computerized sewing machine, it has an LCD screen and a layered fabric feeding system"
  • Best Computerized Sewing Machine: SINGER Confidence Quilter 7469Q
    "An electronic twin needle and stitch locking system is what this computerized machine can offer to an advanced user"
  • Best Commercial-Grade Sewing Machine: Janome 7330 Magnolia
    "Adjustable speed control and a built-in needle threader make this machine perfect for precision sewing"

Top 8 Sewing Machines for Advanced Sewers Reviews 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2143 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.6
1
Editor’s Choice

SINGER Heavy Duty 4452

Features
  • Type: manual
  • Built-in stitches: 32
  • Buttonhole styles: 1
  • Sewing speed: 1100 spm
  • Dimensions: 15.5 x 6.25 x 12 inches
  • Weight: 17.55 lbs.

More features: built-in needle threader; heavy-duty accessories included; quick start guide

Singer is one of the oldest and most popular sewing machine manufacturers in the world. The company is known to offer clients quality machines with extra features, and the SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine is not different. One of the first things that you notice about this machine is its heavy-duty frame. This metal frame makes it sturdy and stable even when handling heavy workloads. And while the machine has a strong metallic frame, it is pretty much lightweight at only 17.55 pounds.

This sewing machine also features an automatic needle threader. While many advanced sewers do not struggle with threading the needs, the automatic threader will save you loads of time. The machine has a transparent bobbin plate, which means that you will always keep tabs of the bobbin thread.

The SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine has a standard 32 built-in stitches to help you decorate your fabrics. You can easily select the number of stitches that you want to use with the rotatory knob at the front. The machine is powered by a 60% more powerful motor than other heavy-duty machines. This means that sewing leather, canvas, or other thick fabric material will be easy.

    What are its best features?
  • It has an automatic reverse feature
  • It has a powerful motor
  • Easy to load bobbins
    What could be improved?
  • It may break needles at maximum speed
Also Product Ranking:
See more...
Read full review: singer 4452
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7361 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.2
2
Best Value

Brother XR3774

Features
  • Type: automatic
  • Built-in stitches: 37
  • Buttonhole styles: 1
  • Sewing speed: not specified
  • Dimensions: 15.3 x 5.8 x 12 inches
  • Weight: 18.3 lbs.

More features: automatic needle threader; drop-in top bobbin; accessories included; versatile free arm; 25-year limited warranty

The Brother Sewing XR3774 Machine is a great partner for your next large project. It offers some exceptional features at an affordable price. This sewing machine is a great choice for advanced sewers that want to save some few bucks. Unlike other sewing machines in the industry, this model has a wide table that makes it possible to handle larger projects.

You should also get this sewing machine if you want to make decorations and other designs. This is because the Brother Sewing XR3774 Machine features some decorative stitches too. The 37 built-in stitches are great for advanced sewers that prefer fewer stitches or those that are not ready for hundreds of stitches.

The one-step buttonholer makes perfect and consistent buttonholes every time. It also comes with a number of different feet for different types of stitching. Some of the eight types of sewing feet include a blind stitch, walking, and even a quilting stitch.

Other features include a bright LED surface that lights up dimly lit rooms when you are stitching. A stitch selector dial, an LCD screen, and a quilting table are included too.

    What do we love it for?
  • A very silent machine
  • Great for large fabrics
  • Affordable
    What were we disappointed with?
  • No automatic bobbin winder
Also Product Ranking:
Read full review: brother xr3774 review
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2091 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.0
Features
  • Type: computerized
  • Built-in stitches: 100
  • Buttonhole styles: 1
  • Sewing speed: 700 spm
  • Dimensions: 16 x 11.3 x 7 inches
  • Weight: 12.3 lbs.

More features: simple design; LCD screen; auto needle

Juki has been a renowned sewing machine maker for several decades. It is known to combine the use of contemporary technology with high-quality material to make some durable products. The Juki HZL-LB5100 is not an exception. This is a simple yet highly functional sewing machine that is great for professionals and beginners alike.

It features 100 stitches, which means it is a versatile sewing machine. There are several types of stitches, including utility and decorative stitches, that ensure you can work on a wide range of projects. Other examples of stitches include knit stitches, zigzag stitches, buttonholes, and stretch stitches. A stitch chart outlines all the stitches since it’s impossible to know all of them.

Unlike many traditional models, Juki HZL-LB5100 features an LED-lit workspace. This is a great sewing machine if you often love to work during the night or if your workshop has little lighting. Furthermore, the LED light focuses on the needle plate area, and this minimizes the risk of being pricked. An automatic needle threader, LCD screen, a 7-point feed dog system, and other accessories are included.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Easy to use
  • Very versatile
  • Offers consistent and quality stitches
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Not so silent
  • The machine may skip stitches when changing needles
Read full review: juki hzl lb5100 review
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2948 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
8.9
4
Best Automatic Sewing Machine

Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine

Features
  • Type: automatic
  • Built-in stitches: 37
  • Buttonhole styles: 1
  • Sewing speed: 800 spm
  • Dimensions: 7.9 x 16.1 x 12.2 inches
  • Weight: 18.4 lbs.

More features: drop-in top bobbin; jam-resistant; accessories included; versatile free arm; easy stitch selector

Are you looking for a powerful, versatile yet affordable sewing machine? The Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine is a tough machine that can handle some of the difficult and demanding tasks around the house.

Threading the needle is sometimes a challenging even to advanced sewers. That said, the Brother ST371HD has an automatic needle threader. The machine will automatically find the thread and pull it through the eye of the needle. We all know how tasking it can get when you are fitting a large or frayed thread through a tiny needle.

A quick-set drop-in feature in the Brother ST371HD allows you to simply place the bobbin on to its holder. The thread guide mark on the bobbin holder makes it even easier to guide the thread to its rightful place. You will also be able to know if the thread supply is low as the bobbin holder has a transparent cover.

This sewing machine has a spacious work area with a free arm and a storage compartment. You can use this space to place any needles, extra stitches, or feet to minimize movements once you start sewing. The free area can also be retracted to allow different applications, such as making cuffs.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Versatile free arm
  • Easy stitch selector
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Some components are made from plastic
Also Product Ranking:
Read full review: brother st371hd review
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3230 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
8.8
5
Best for Home Use

Necchi EX30

Features
  • Type: computerized
  • Built-in stitches: 30
  • Buttonhole styles: 3
  • Sewing speed: not specified
  • Dimensions: 15 x 7 x 11 inches
  • Weight: 22.2 lbs.

More features: top loading full rotary hook bobbin; comes with an extension table and optic magnifier; built-in needle threader

The Necchi EX30 Sewing Machine is a great machine for those that are skilled enough to use it. It has 30 needles, which may be a great option for those that think 60 built-in stitches are too many. It also features three buttonhole styles.

Although this sewing machine is lightweight, it is pretty stable. It weighs a mere 22.2 pounds and measures 15 x 7 x 11 inches. You can stitch a maximum length of 5 mm and a width of 7 mm, which is adjusted by the buttons on the machine. You also choose the number of stitches using the 30 buttons on the sewing machine.

This machine comes with several impressive features. An extension table and an optical magnifier are included when buying the sewing machine. The latter magnifies the view by up to 20% and ensures you have a close view of the action. This vision is further improved by LED lights that let you see what you are stitching. You can also use a foot pedal as an alternative when you start sewing and later use the switch to change and set the speed control.

    What do we love it for?
  • Stitch selection buttons
  • Features LED lights and a magnifier
  • Easy to use
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty material
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5094 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.3
8.7
6
Features
  • Type: computerized
  • Built-in stitches: 163
  • Buttonhole styles: 7
  • Sewing speed: not specified
  • Dimensions: 19.5 x 11.8 x 8.6 inches
  • Weight: 48.2 lbs.

More features: comes with an exclusive bundle; layered fabric feeding system; LCD screen

Janome is known to produce sturdy and heavy sewing machines that are great for advanced users. The Janome Memory Craft 6600P is no exception as it offers several features. This sewing machine is great for those who love quilting, patchwork or applique sewing, although it doesn’t have a free arm.

With an impressive number of built-in stitches (163), you might think that working this machine is complicated. However, the machine groups all the stitching options into three, including utility, decorative, and pictograph. All you have to do is to choose the mode that you want and input the number according to the manual guide.

Unlike other machines that come with the usual spools, the Janome Memory Craft 6600P has in-built spindles. It works great when sewing light and medium fabrics but can sew heavy fabrics as well. You can use delicate fabrics such as silk or satin. The machine also sews well on natural fibers such as wool or cotton. We don’t recommend that you use this machine with heavy-duty fabrics such as canvas or rubber.

Other features that you will encounter with the Janome Memory Craft 6600P include an auto-lock, drop feed button, and an LCD screen display. The knee lift and the up-and-down button are also well-fitted and easy to access.

    What do we love it for?
  • Easy to use
  • Low maintenance
  • Includes a quick reference guide
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Doesn’t have a free arm
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4925 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.3
7
Best Computerized Sewing Machine

SINGER Confidence Quilter 7469Q

Features
  • Type: computerized
  • Built-in stitches: 98
  • Buttonhole styles: 7
  • Sewing speed: not specified
  • Dimensions: 17 x 8 x 12.5 inches
  • Weight: 22.2 lbs.

More features: automatic needle threader; electronic twin needle; stitch locking system; LED lights

Looking for a powerful machine that is great for quilting? This computerized sewing machine was designed with quilting lovers in mind. It comes with everything that a quilting lover would love, such as piecing, binding, stitching in the ditch, and a free motion feature.

If you enjoy embroidery or like embellishing your fabrics, then you will love the SINGER Confidence 7469Q. It has 98 pre-programmed stitches that make sewing fun. You can change the stitches when working on fabrics with complex designs as the machine has a computerized system.

The automatic needle threader will save you lots of time too. This comes in handy if you have trouble threading the needle in a sewing machine. You can read the instruction manual on how to use it if you experience any problems while using it.

A 5.5-inch throat space is featured on the machine, which some may find small for a quilting machine. This means you may experience some difficulty with making large quilts. The extension table is, however, large enough and can support a large piece of fabric through it.

    What do we love it for?
  • Quite portable
  • Comes with an LED lightweight
  • Great for thick fabrics
    What were we disappointed with?
  • No speed control option
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4964 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.1
8
Best Commercial-Grade Sewing Machine

Janome 7330 Magnolia

Features
  • Type: computerized
  • Built-in stitches: 30
  • Buttonhole styles: not specified
  • Sewing speed: not specified
  • Dimensions: 22.2 x 15.5 x 12.4 inches
  • Weight: 21.4 lbs.

More features: built-in needle threader; adjustable speed control; LED display

If you are an advanced or intermediate sewer that enjoys sewing the traditional way, then you will love this machine. Using this machine may take time, but those who get the hang of it eventually love it. One of the main reasons why people love this machine is how powerful yet user-friendly it is.

This sewing machine features 30 built-in stitches, which include the normal stitches and other decorative stitches. Switching between the stitches is made faster and easier with the selection dial. You also get access to a transparent stitch panel, which will let you know how much stitches are still available. To make things easy during stitching, each and every stitch is given a unique letter that denotes the stitching style on the stitch selection dial.

A reverse stitch function is also included in this model. This is a great addition to any advanced sewer as reverse stitching is an effective method of tightening your stitches. The reverse lever on this machine is large enough to find and easy to use. This machine is perfect for advanced sewers that would love to enjoy the traditional.

    What makes it special?
  • Includes a free arm
  • Great for precision sewing
  • A jam-proof bobbin
    What cons did we find?
  • A bit noisy

Things to Consider

While it is imperative to note some of the top products on the market, it is worth considering some key factors before buying a sewing machine. This will ensure that you choose the perfect sewing machine for advanced sewers, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some of the things that you should keep in mind.

What is different about sewing machines for advanced sewers?

There are sewing machines for every user level. Sewing machines for advanced users come in different shapes and sizes, but they have some distinguishing features that set them apart. These include.

  • Several stitches and stitching options- top of the range sewing machines for advanced sewers gives their users endless stitching options. They also make it easy to use these stitches by marking them with special numbers or codes. The Janome Memory Craft 6600P, for example, comes with 163 built-in stitches.
  • Automated and computerized features- sewing machines for advanced users are mostly automated to ensure you spend the least time on the machine and more time on your sewing project. Some sewing machines have an automatic threader, auto tension, or an automated needle up and down.
  • Quality output- It impossible to ignore the high-quality products that sewing machines for advanced sewers present. They have more stitches and can produce better decorations, embroidery, or quilts.

Features to consider before you buy a sewing machine for advanced sewers

Buying a sewing machine is not difficult, but it is easy to purchase one that does not meet your needs and preferences. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind when getting a sewing machine for advanced sewers.

Type

8 Best Sewing Machines for Advanced Sewers - Versatile and Professional!

There are two main types of sewing machines, including computerized and mechanical machines. Each of these different types of machines has its sets of pros and cons. Computerized machines such as the Janome Memory Craft 6600P or the Necchi EX30 Sewing Machine often have a display screen and buttons that change the settings. Many people prefer these computerized machines as they store several stitch patterns and can even save a custom pattern. However, these machines run the risk of breaking down, which can get costly.

Built-in stitches

A high-end machine will likely have dozens or even hundreds of stitches. And while the number of built-in stitches depends on the type of machine, computerized sewing machines will often have more stitches. It is worth noting that having many stitches means that a sewing machine will be able to sew more patterns. The Janome Memory Craft 6600P offers an impressive 163 stitches. However, if you want a simpler machine, then you should try the Janome Computerized Magnolia that comes with 30 stitches.

Buttonhole styles

Do you regularly sew clothing? If yes, then you have probably tried adding buttons to your fabric garments and know how difficult it is.

Even advanced sewers experience problems when sewing buttonholes, which is why you need a sewing machine that has buttonhole options.

Many machines will let you sew buttons and offer different buttonhole styles. For example, the SINGER Confidence 7469Q offers its users seven buttonhole styles. This offers you a lot of variety.

Sewing speed

The sewing speed is another critical factor that can make a large difference in your projects. Of course, you want a machine that allows you to complete your project earlier, but this is not all that you should consider. While everyone wants to finish their sewing projects earlier than expected, this is not always the best case in all scenarios. For example, sewing at high speeds produces maximum power that can easily harm delicate fabrics such as nylon or silk. If you would love a super-fast sewing machine, then you can try out the 1100 spm, SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine. The Juki HZL-LB5100 Sewing Machine is a much slower machine if you want an average machine.

8 Best Sewing Machines for Advanced Sewers - Versatile and Professional!

Dimensions

There are several sizes of sewing machines that range from small to large. Size is important if you often have to move the machine, maybe from your craft room to a store. In this case, you should get a smaller size machine such as the Juki HZL-LB5100 Sewing Machine. However, if you won’t be moving your sewing machine regularly, then you can get a large machine like the Janome Computerized Magnolia.

Weight

A light machine is easy to carry and transport if you have to move your sewing machine from time to time.

However, such machines may also be less strong or stable. While you do not want something that weighs as heavy as a rock, you still want a sturdy machine that can handle the vigorous sewing process. The Janome Memory Craft 6600P weighed 48 pounds and was the heaviest of the machines that we reviewed. If you want a lighter and much portable sewing machine, then you can try the Juki HZL-LB5100 Sewing Machine that weighs a mere 12 pounds.

FAQ

What kind of additional features do sewing machines for advanced sewers have?

Sewing machines offer a wide range of features. With a standard machine, a person can stitch fabrics, complete hems, quilt, or dew monograms. Sewing machines for advanced sewers offer extra features that allow users to stitch more patterns and decorations. They also allow advanced sewers to sew at high stitching speeds and finish their sewing projects earlier. This is done by incorporating more powerful DC motors or including hundreds of stitches in the machines. These machines are also computerized to make sewing an easy job for sewing lovers.

Do you need any special accessories for a sewing machine?

No, you do not need any special accessories for a sewing machine. Most sewing machines on the market came with their own accessories, and you will have to buy little to no extra accessories. Some of the accessories include needle threaders, foot adjustments, free arms, machine covers, and extension tables, among others. This does not mean that you should not get any accessories. Accessories help to unlock more functionality from your sewing machine, and getting more of them gives you more value.

Are there portable sewing machines for advanced sewers?

Yes, there are some highly portable sewing machines. Weight and dimensions are some of the important factors to consider when looking for a portable sewing machine. The Juki HZL-LB5100 Sewing Machine is portable, as it only weighs 12 pounds. This sewing machine also measures 16 x 11.3 x 7 inches, which means it is easy to carry and transport.

Our verdict

We loved the SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine most for several reasons. Its 1100 stitching speed per minute allows you to finish sewing projects weeks earlier. This manual sewing machine has a powerful motor, has a built-in needle threader, and features 32 stitching needles.

Our best value pick is the Brother Sewing XR3774. This sewing machine is very affordable, but it’s still one of the best sewing machines for advanced sewers. It features an automatic needle threader, a versatile free arm, and drop-in top bobbin, among others. This product is a simple machine that still delivers quality output.

 

9,6
Total Score
SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 - Editor’s Choice
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